The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has made changes to Aadhaar-related rules and introduced a new digital identity option called Aadhaar Verifiable Credential (AVC).
The main aim of this move is to make offline identity verification more secure and to limit unnecessary sharing of personal data.
These amendments were officially notified on December 9 and published on the UIDAI website on Friday. The updated rules also apply to agencies that verify Aadhaar details without real-time access to UIDAI servers.
What is Aadhaar Verifiable Credential (AVC)?
AVC is a digitally signed document that contains only limited Aadhaar information. This may include the last four digits of the Aadhaar number, name, address, date of birth, gender, and photograph.
A key feature of AVC is that Aadhaar holders can choose which details they want to share during verification.
UIDAI’s upcoming Aadhaar app will allow users to control what information is shared with verification agencies, while keeping the full Aadhaar number hidden. This ensures secure verification with better privacy protection.
Offline Face Verification Feature Added
UIDAI has also introduced a new feature called offline face verification. With this, a verification agency can match a live facial photo of the user with the photo stored in the Aadhaar app.
This process does not require an internet connection, making it useful in areas with limited connectivity while still ensuring secure identity checks.
Shift from Physical to Digital Aadhaar
Through these updates, UIDAI aims to reduce the use of physical Aadhaar cards and photocopies. UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar has earlier pointed out that physical copies carry a higher risk of misuse.
Therefore, moving towards digital-first Aadhaar verification is considered a safer and more practical solution.
UIDAI has also introduced a new definition of “Aadhaar Application”, which now includes all UIDAI apps and portals. The earlier reference to mAadhaar has been removed, as the new app will support easier and broader digital use of Aadhaar.
New Registration Rules for Offline Verification Entities
For the first time, UIDAI has created a formal registration system for organizations that want to perform identity verification using AVC or Aadhaar Paperless Offline e-KYC.
Under the newly added Rule 13A, any entity wishing to conduct offline Aadhaar verification must register with UIDAI. UIDAI has the authority to review applications, ask for additional details, approve or reject registrations, and decide on registration or transaction fees.
If an application is rejected, UIDAI must provide the reason within 15 days, and the organization can apply for reconsideration within 30 days.
Strict Action for Rule Violations
UIDAI will now have the power to take strict action against entities involved in negligence, misuse, or non-compliance during offline Aadhaar verification.
If an organization fails to follow guidelines, uses Aadhaar verification for illegal purposes, hides information, or does not cooperate during audits, UIDAI may impose penalties, suspend verification permissions, or cancel registration altogether.
